A video has surfaced on social media showing a Spanish tourist feeding beer to a male elephant at a conservation reserve in central Kenya, sparking widespread outrage among locals and wildlife enthusiasts. The incident, which was captured on Instagram, features a 44-year-old elephant named Bupa being given a can of Tusker beer by the unidentified tourist.
Bupa resides at the Ol Jogi conservation, a private reserve that claims to provide a safe habitat for indigenous and critically endangered species. The video, which has since been deleted, was accompanied by the caption “Just a tusker with a tusked friend.” Another deleted video allegedly shows the same tourist feeding carrots to an endangered rhino.
The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) has launched an investigation into the incident, according to spokesperson Paul Udoto. The video garnered hundreds of comments from Kenyans expressing their anger and frustration over the treatment of the country’s protected wildlife. This incident is the latest in a series of disturbing cases involving tourists disrupting Kenya’s wildlife.
Last week, a group of tourists was filmed blocking the migration path of wildebeest at the Maasai Mara Reserve, forcing some of the animals into crocodile-infested waters. In response to the incident, Cabinet Secretary for Tourism and Wildlife Rebecca Miano announced a four-point action plan aimed at strengthening animal protection in the Maasai Mara. The plan includes stricter enforcement of park rules, increased ranger presence, and clearer accountability for tour operators.
Miano emphasized the importance of protecting both visitors and wildlife, stating that Kenya’s tourism future relies on its ability to preserve the integrity of its natural wonders. The Kenyan government’s commitment to conservation is being closely watched, and the outcome of the KWS investigation into the beer-feeding incident is expected to be closely monitored. The incident serves as a reminder of the need for responsible tourism practices and respect for wildlife in their natural habitats.
According to sources, including the BBC, the Kenyan government is taking steps to address the issue of tourist disruption of wildlife and to ensure that the country’s conservation efforts are effective. The incident involving Bupa the elephant has highlighted the need for continued vigilance and education on the importance of respecting and protecting Kenya’s wildlife.
